In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

KISHTWAR: A meeting of the District Road Safety Committee was today convened here under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Kumar Shavan to review the status and progress of road safety measures across the district. The meeting featured presentations from various departments and committee members on the latest actions taken to improve road safety.

To strengthen vehicle monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, the DC directed the ARTO , DTI and Police authorities to jointly establish a 24x7 control room for real-time GPS-based vehicle tracking and surveillance. Referring to rising concerns of road safety, the DC instructed the nodal agencies to intensify document verification, monitor overspeeding and ensure strict adherence to traffic regulations. The importance of preventive measures and public awareness was highlighted as a critical component in reducing road mishaps.

The ARTO informed the meeting that the MVD has seized 68 vehicles for overloading, fitness issues and other violations in the last 3 months. Similarly, 12 vehicle permits were suspended, 104 vehicles blacklisted and 22 driving licenses suspended during the period.

The DC directed ARTO to enhance coordination with stakeholders for joint enforcement drives, public sensitization campaigns and use of modern equipment like speed guns. He also stressed the need for periodic fitness and license checks, holding health check up camps for drivers, establishment of driver training institute, and prompt disbursement of compensation to families of road accident victims. Special emphasis was laid on sensitizing drivers about the dangers of drug abuse and educating the general public about traffic safety and overloading.

Further, the DC conducted a comprehensive review of accident-prone locations, directing officials to expedite the installation of crash barriers, convex mirrors, and corrective measures. He directed for erection of Crash Barriers by BRO & NHIDCL at an earliest.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts among all stakeholders, including the Motor Vehicles Department, Traffic Police, and allied agencies. He also directed ARTO Kishtwar to file an appeal in case of any adverse Order.

The meeting was attended by SSP Naresh Singh, ADC Pawan Kotwal, ACR Idrees lone, ARTO Tasleem Wani, Executive Engineer PMGSY Rajesh Sharma, besides other senior officers and concerned staff.

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A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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